Quantifying Olfactory Dysfunction in Parkinson's Disease
Investigating olfactory dysfunction as a non-invasive biomarker for early Parkinson’s disease detection.
Overview
Project Details
This research project investigates olfactory dysfunction as a potential non-invasive biomarker for the early detection of Parkinson’s disease. Olfactory impairment is one of the earliest and most prevalent non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, often appearing years before motor symptoms become clinically evident.
In collaboration with the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Neuroscience, the project uses a custom-developed olfactometer to deliver precisely controlled olfactory stimuli while recording synchronized EEG and fNIRS data. By analyzing brain responses to olfactory stimulation, the project aims to better understand how neurodegenerative changes affect sensory processing and to explore objective markers that could support earlier diagnosis and disease monitoring.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
This project is currently on hold due to restructuring within VIB. However, we are still ACTIVELY recruiting for this project with the hopes of restarting it in the spring semester of 2026. If you have any questions, kindly reach out to us.
Focus Areas
Olfactory Dysfunction & Early Parkinson’s
This focus area examines olfactory impairment as one of the earliest indicators of Parkinson’s disease. By studying sensory processing deficits that emerge before motor symptoms, the project targets early-stage biomarkers with strong clinical relevance.
Controlled Olfactory Stimulation
Using a custom-built olfactometer developed in collaboration with VIB, the project delivers precisely timed and dosed olfactory stimuli. This allows for systematic investigation of brain responses under controlled sensory conditions.
Multimodal Brain Recording
(EEG & fNIRS)
During olfactory stimulation, participants wear a cap that simultaneously records EEG and fNIRS data. These synchronized measurements enable analysis of both electrical brain activity and hemodynamic responses to sensory input.
Biomarker Analysis & Neurodegeneration
The recorded data is processed and analyzed to identify patterns associated with altered brain responses to olfactory stimulation. Detecting consistent deficits linked to neurodegeneration could support the development of objective biomarkers for Parkinson’s disease.
Interested in this project?
Learn more about the people behind the project or explore how to get involved through Neurotech Leuven.
